But San Diego (Calif.) defensive tackle Christian Heyward has navigated his recruitment seamlessly with the help of his mother, Lorrie Heyward. She went along with Christian for his visit to Arizona and will be on hand this weekend when he visits USC.

"This is all new for us," Lorrie Heyward said. "It's a great experience and a great journey."

Heyward unofficially visited USC for the home finale against Notre Dame. He has a top five of Arizona, Washington, USC, Oregon and Miami. UCLA is also in the picture, as Heyward's uncle, Kenny Washington, played basketball at the school.

"It's nice that it's down to five or six schools," Heyward said. "It's not as overwhelming. We're just enjoying the process."

USC has been the lone school to have an in-home visit with Heyward so far. One school Heyward is hoping to get things cleared with is Miami. The coaching change has certainly caught the Heywards' attention.

"I just talked to one of the coaches a few weeks ago before this happened," Heyward said. "But since it's happened, I haven't talked to anyone."

Despite being involved in the recruiting process, Lorrie Heyward said the decision would be Christian's alone. But she had a clear idea of what to look for in schools.

"I'm looking for a great education for him," Heyward said. "And I'm looking for him to be in a family atmosphere with great people in his four-year experience."

Christian's play has caught the attention of more than just schools. On Sunday, he'll be a guest at the San Diego Chargers game. The 6-foot-2, 369-pound senior has also been named an Under Armour All-American,

USCfootball.com will keep you updated on Heyward's visit and recruitment.